Success Stories

We frequently get progress reports and thank-you's from people who have adopted animals from the shelter. Nothing warms our hearts more than to see former residents whooping it up in their new digs and hanging out with their new parents. We think you'll enjoy these stories too.

If you have a story about a BRHA adoptee that you would like to share, please do! Email us or send your story by regular mail...and don't forget the pictures!

February 2015 - Shelby and Buddha

We wanted to give an update on Devi – formerly Shelby – since we haven’t communicated with you yet. I’m sorry it took so long!

We are extremely grateful for Devi. She came in to our lives after we lost our dog of 10+ years and has enriched our lives so much. She is such a loving, intelligent, sweet pup. We love her SO much. She’s doing great! She got her jaw wire out about a week and a half ago and is such a happier, healthier dog now. She and Buddha are still attached at... the hip and they do EVERYTHING together. They are the best of friends.

She is currently enrolled in a basic obedience class and is top of her class. We are very excited to do agility with her.
Thank you for bringing Devi in to our lives. She has been such a joy for us and once we fix a few kinks – she will be the perfect pup! The future is very exciting for our family.

Buddha is also doing amazingly. He loves having a big sister and has made the transition so much better by showing her the ropes. He continues to practice his agility and is about to start a Calm Under Pressure class. He will also be starting his quest for a bachelor’s degree in the C.L.A.S.S. program this spring. He’s such a happy boy and can’t wait for the spring to do some major backpacking (his favorite!), so he can show Devi all of his favorite places.

We will be sure to update you in the near future. Thank you again for all you do!

February 2015 - Sitka

Sitka was adopted 5 years ago and looking marvelous!

February 2015 - Charlie

Five years ago today we brought home this handsome guy! He is such a great dog and we have loved every second of being his people! We actually came to BHA to look at a different dog, but realized the dog would require more training than we felt we could provide being first-time dog owners. We decided to look around at the other dogs. Charlie was sitting so quietly in his kennel and as soon as I walked over, he very calmly walked over, put his little paws up on the bar and gave me kisses. The rest is history!

February 2015 - Greg and Otis

Greg and Otis stopped by for a visit!!! You may know Otis formerly as Amerly. Adopted 3 years ago and going strong!!!

THANKS!!

January 2015 - Blue

Just wanted to update you ladies on Blue. Blue is adjusting really well. The only accident he's had in the house was the first day he got here and didn't know where the door was, he has learned to shake both paws, sit, and lay down. I have him whistle-trained and he seems to respond well to it, although I don't let him off his leash as he is easily distracted and would take himself to explore.

We are working on walking next to a quad or side-by-side and he seems to really enjoy it. He ...seemed very tentative when he first arrived, he would duck his head as if he was gonna get smacked. He has overcome that now but loud noises still startle him and he bolts away. We're still working on his pulling on the leash, he's gotten better (he is a hound after all). It's still a work in progress.

Over all, Blue is a really great dog and I would like to thank you guys for taking the chance on me.

Thank you: Blue and Brian - Happy New Year to all of you there at the shelter.

January 2015 - Ozzie

Ozzie, who was adopted from us a few years ago, came in to visit! What a great update!!

January 2015 - Rusty

BRHA Volunteer Claire having fun with Rusty, a sweet shelter dog she adopted in November.

January 2015 - Dora

Dora was a resident of the BRHA (Bitterroot Humane Association in Hamilton) until Judy of MTCAN, took her into her home as a foster. Dora is a sweet, sensitive girl who ...finally got her chance at a forever home. Judy got to visit with her in her new home with her new family. Dora is getting along just fine with Wyo the parrot, her new "brother".

December 2014 - Oscar

In 2012 this cat was adopted to a very happy boy! Two years later they are still best friends!

Go Oscar!

October 2014 - Tucker and Minnie

AWWWW!! Updates on Tucker and Minnie! DOING AMAZING, Tucker wearing his "cool dude" coat and taking as many cuddles as possible. Minnie wagging her tail more and more and barking when she needs attention!!
This is why adoption is the best way to go!

October 2014 - Kaley and Cappy

What a wonderful collaboration (BRHA and MTCAN) for Kaley and Cappy. They are doing excellent in their new home, as well! Riding in the car, hanging with the kids, and relaxing is what they do best!!

October 2014 - Summit

We were planning on giving a one-year update on Summit (formerly “Gunner”), and still will, but for now wanted to thank you for all the great work you’ve done to give Summit a great life.

We have been endlessly impressed with Summit’s ability to learn, read situations, and PLAY! Last night we took him to our friend’s house for him to play with her two dogs. After just one evening together not only did he tire out her two energetic pups, but he was walking up to our friend and not only tolerating, but enjoying her petting him.

He loves to wrestle with us in the morning, go for walks, and he’s turning into a great hiker. In just one week he’s been up Jumbo Mountain and has explored Blue Mountain. One of your dedicated volunteers called him a “goofball”, but we couldn’t see that side until we got him home. Since the first day his goofball qualities have shone bright and it has been a privilege to watch him be playful, cheerful, and trusting.

Summit has really taken to his meat-based dog food and is eating two meals consistently every day so we’re hopeful he’ll get that needed meat on his bones in good time.

I know that without your working with him he would not be as far as he is today. We look forward to sending pictures of Summit on summits of Montana’s Mountains, but before then we wanted to extend our most sincerest gratitude. Thank you.